Pune Gangland: Possible Involvement of Chhota Rajan in Qateel Siddiqui’s Jail Murder Probed

By India Crime Correspondent

PUNE, 10 June, 2012

• Unveiling Suspicion: Chhota Rajan’s Alleged Connection to Inmate’s Murder
• Police Probe into Potential Involvement of Underworld Elements in Qateel Siddiqui’s Killing
• Investigations Delve into Underworld Link in Pune’s Yerwada Jail Killing

As doubts surround the high-security Yerwada jail murder of Indian Mujahideen operative Qateel Siddiqui, law enforcement agencies are delving into the possibility of underworld influences, particularly those attributed to Chhota Rajan.

Rajan’s “Patriotic Don” Persona: Catalyst for Speculation

Chhota Rajan’s portrayal as a “patriotic don” following his estrangement from Dawood Ibrahim after the latter’s alleged orchestration of the 1993 serial blasts in response to the Babri demolition-triggered communal riots, has triggered suspicion.

This shift has positioned Rajan as a self-proclaimed advocate of patriotism.

Ex-Associates’ Rivalries: Dawood’s Allies Targeted by Splinter Groups

Erstwhile partners of Rajan, such as Bharat Nepali, Santosh Shetty, Vijay Shetty, and Ravi Pujari, established their own factions subsequent to the split. Their activities have notably targeted the D-company, which now enjoys a significant alignment with Pakistan’s ISI.

Inmates Behind Killing Cite Siddiqui’s Alleged Anti-National Actions

Sharad Mohol and Alok Bhalerao, the incarcerated duo responsible for Qateel Siddiqui’s strangulation, informed investigators that their motive was Siddiqui’s purported attempt to destroy their deity, Ganapati’s temple, coupled with his alleged anti-national endeavors.

Gangster’s Nationalist Facade: Political and Acceptance Motives

Such “nationalist” postures can bolster the reputation and acceptability of gangs and gangsters, transforming them from mere criminals into perceived counterweights to Pakistan-linked underworld entities.

This transformation is of strategic importance, elevating their status and expanding their influence.

Parallel Cases: Consistent Pattern of “Anti-National” Accusations

Instances of gang operatives justifying their actions under the banner of “anti-national” sentiments have been recurrent. In a case involving the Vijay Shetty gang, operatives planning an attack on 7/11 train blast accused Ehtesham Siddiqui cited his alleged anti-national activities.

This pattern aims to elevate the gang’s stature and gain recognition from intelligence agencies.

Rajan’s Ambitions: Intelligence Agencies’ Favour Sought

Gangsters affiliated with Rajan have employed killings with a veneer of nationalism to attract Indian intelligence agencies’ favor, aiming to facilitate their growth and operations.

This strategic approach has been consistent in their criminal endeavors.

Jail Network and Murder History

The possible involvement of Chhota Rajan’s gang in Qateel Siddiqui’s murder is underlined by the gang’s extensive network within Maharashtra jails.

Previous occurrences involving Rajan’s aides operating from behind bars and orchestrating sensational murders add weight to this angle.

A case highlighting the gang’s intricate jail network is the 2003 murder of estranged Rajan associate O P Singh. Around 20 members of the Rajan gang, including D K Rao, were swiftly transferred to Nashik jail from Mumbai’s Arthur Road jail, leading to Singh’s murder within days. The incident resulted in the suspension of multiple officers from both facilities.

Jail Dynamics Offer Puzzle in Siddiqui’s Death

The circumstances leading to Qateel Siddiqui’s murder raise questions, with reports indicating that Siddiqui previously shared amicable interactions with his assailants, including engaging in chess matches.

The puzzling turn of events prompts investigators to examine the intricacies of the incident further.

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